California Smoke Detector Guidelines
Q. Mike, What are the California guidelines on smoke detectors for the house we're purchasing?
A. Good Question. California law requires that every single-family dwelling and factory-built housing have operable smoke detectors that are approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal and installed in accordance with the State Fire Marshal's regulations.
The smoke detectors must be centrally located outside each sleeping area. For example, a two-story home with bedrooms upstairs and downstairswould need two smoke detectors, one in the hallway outside the bedrooms(s) upstairs and one in the hallway outside the bedroom(s) downstairs.
Furthermore, for any new construction or any additions, alterations, repairs after August 14, 1992 that exceeds $1,000 in cost and for which a permit is required, a smoke detector must be installed in each bedroom in addition to being centrally located in the corridor or area outside the bedroom.
For new construction only, the smoke detector must be hardwired with a battery backup. For all other homes, the smoke detector may be battery operated.
Sellers must check with the local department of building and safety in which the home is located to determine any additional local smoke detector requirements.
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